BLACK INK FROM OAK GALLS

MATERIALS:

Oak galls

Grinder/ hammer to crush

Water (rain or tap)

Rusted object

Vinegar

Jar/ bowl

Strainer

Utensil to stir

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For this dye will need to collect oak galls from the local park or garden and rusted iron (e.g, nails found outside). The idea of mixing a natural tannin- rich solution with an iron solution results in a chemical reaction that creates dye/ ink. This process will need time and patience.  

Firstly, crush the galls finely into a jar and fill with water (tannin- rich solution) then in a separate jar add the rusted iron object with vinegar (iron solution). Leave both mixtures to mature for minimum 4 days, a week for best results. After this time strain both solutions separately into bowls. Slowly pour the iron solution into the tannin solution and immediately the reaction should take place, turning the liquid black and creating the dye.